In a historic departure from tradition, Yewa South Local Government on Monday, December 16, hosted its first-ever African Noel Christmas Carol Service, blending the celebration of Christ’s birth with the rich cultural heritage of Yewaland.
The 2025 Carol Service, held at the Local Government Secretariat in Ilaro, marked the formal ushering in of end-of-year festivities and drew staff, community leaders and residents to a culturally inspired worship experience.
Featuring nine lessons rendered through traditional rhythms, the service showcased indigenous melodies such as Bolojo, Ewi and other local tunes, performed at the Local Government Christian Chapel. The uniquely African rendition of the carols delighted congregants and created an atmosphere of joy and cultural pride.
The captivating performances stirred spontaneous dancing, as the Executive Chairman of the Local Government, Barrister Abraham Babatunde Ogunsola, alongside the Iyaloja of Sayedero Market, Alhaja Risikat Idowu, joined others on the dance floor in appreciation of the rich local sounds delivered by the carol choir.
Speaking at the event, Barr. Ogunsola described the service as “a thing of joy,” noting that it was refreshing to see staff of the local government openly appreciate and celebrate the culture of Yewaland. He questioned the long-standing reliance on foreign carol tunes, despite the abundance of indigenous songs, adding that the event represented what a typical local government carol service should be.
He further commended the current crop of officers, describing them as the best in the state, and praised their commitment to preserving and promoting the area’s cultural heritage.
Corroborating the Chairman’s views, the Iyaloja of Sayedero Market, Alhaja Risikat Idowu, said the 2025 Carol Service was deliberately planned to resonate with people at the grassroots.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Segun Aina, explained that the theme of the service was designed to highlight Yewa culture and tradition, portraying a truly rural and indigenous carol celebration.
Adding colour to the event was the beautifully coordinated aso-ebi worn by members of staff, symbolising unity and further reflecting the cultural identity of Yewaland. Notably, Muslims were also in attendance, fully dressed and joyfully participating alongside their Christian counterparts in celebrating the birth of Christ, underscoring the spirit of interfaith harmony.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Chairperson of the Local Government, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ogunsola; Vice Chairman, Hon. Bankole Sheriff; Leader of the House, Hon. Lukmon Ibrahim; Secretary to the Local Government, Alhaji Ayelagbe AbdulJabar; Head of Local Government Administration, Alhaja Sekoni, as well as other notable personalities.
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